December is often so jam packed with gatherings, holidays and work that I often forget to celebrate, let alone acknowledge ,that it’s my blog’s anniversary. Crazy to think that I started this tiny blog of mine six years ago, when Kyle was just a little over 1 year old.
I actually never knew that this “influencer world” (if that’s what you want to call it), existed, and I was mostly happy if two of my friends read what I had to say. But here we are, a life time away from my early beginnings. I honestly couldn’t be happier or prouder with how far I’ve come with this blog of mine, and it’s mostly thanks to my amazing readers and the community that we have created over the years.
In the new year, I may do a round-up of my top posts from the year, but I thought that right now, before the holidays, when everyone is busy shopping and gift giving, it might be more timely to share with you some of my favourite products from all time. There have been so many great products, toys and services that I’ve reviewed and while some were loved at first, not all of them made it through the years. So here are a few products that I swear by, whether for myself, my home, for travel or the kids!
I’m a curly haired girl that wishes she would get out of the shower with straight hair. Not likely ever going to happen, so this hair straightener from Rowenta is the next best thing. I kid you not, it takes me about 10 minutes to get my hair from curly to straight. It works so well because of its ability to get to a really high temperature, has a built-in brush and a wide iron. I have recommended this straightener to several people now and everyone agrees!
I’m not really a makeup girl, and I rarely wear it, saving it for special occasions / outings instead. However, sometimes I just pop on some mascara just for a little something-something! I’m a really big fan of Cover Girl makeup, but I love this total tease mascara. It’s easy to put on and doesn’t clump!
I’ve been wearing Skechers shoes since I was a teen, but I love them more now as an adult. When I was younger, all I cared about was style. Now, comfort is of utmost importance. Luckily, Skechers provides me with both!! I’m lucky to live in a walking neighbourhood, but I have to ensure that my feet don’t ache by the end of the day because really, there’s no recovery time when you’re a mom to three young boys. These recently launched line of YOU by Skechers are my favourite for comfort and fashion.
I recently did a master bedroom makeover and one of my favourite pieces was this rug! It’s stylish and comfortable. I never realized how much I needed this rug in my life – especially now in the winter when my feet get super cold.
I’ll be the first to admit that I hardly read books any more. But when I do, it’s glorious! I just complete a stints of trips and I got my fair share of reading time (thanks to traveling solo). Having my Kindle made it so easy because I didn’t need to lug around 4 or 5 books that take up too much clothes / shoes space in my luggage and the built in light was perfect for reading in the dark.
If you’re traveling somewhere where water is involved (beach or lake in the summer), I highly recommend this water proof case for your phone. I actually wore mine when I was surfing and snorkeling in Hawaii. The pictures aren’t amazing, but it’s always nice to have your camera around, just in case. And my phone was totally safe!
Lego is probably the most requested gift by the boys this year… and to be honest, I don’t mind. I feel like we can never have enough of it. While I love building the sets according to the instructions (and Kyle has finally come around to that too), Ryan and Nate just love building their own creations for the million of un-built pieces we have. If you’re just starting out, I would highly recommend this Classic Lego set.
Whenever we traveled to Hawaii with the kids, we always brought along this Coleman Beach Tent / Shade. It folds up compact and it’s super easy to set up. It’s been one of my most asked-about products. If you’re planning on traveling somewhere warm with the family this holiday break, make sure you buy one before you leave! Also, while you’re at it, I highly recommend buying a white noise machine that’s great for at home and travel. Because (a good night’s) sleep is just as important when you’re on vacation.
I would love to hear what some of your favourite, tried-and-tested, products are!
Disclaimer: The links included are affiliate links as this is sponsored post from Amazon Canada that’s a part of the Amazon Associate campaign.
kathy downey says
I also have no time to read books but i do love them !
Janet M says
Thanks for the items shared. We all have favorites we could not be without.
Treen Goodwin says
so many great items , thanks for sharing , great gift ideas 🙂
krisha4444 says
Love these items especially the Skechers! I have a couple pairs and they are the most comfortable shoes EEVER!!!!
Nicole says
Have you tried Curl Ambassadors? You may leave loving your curls more than ever before.
lyndac1968 says
Great items you have choosen, I love the shoes!!
LILLIAN BROWN says
I also like my kindle, keep it in my purse
Florence Cochrane says
Lots of great items. I love the footwear.
Sarah alexis says
I`ve always wondered with straighteners are better than others and why – I could totally use the straightener from Rowenta it sounds awesome!
Erin N says
Great picks! I’m gonna pick out that mascara next time. Merry Christmas to you!
Rebecca F says
These products are all awesome!
Carole D says
Happy blog anniversary! These are all great product!
DebH says
Lego was a big part of my kids lives and now is a big part of my granddaughter’s life. Just started getting to know Skechers and I’m in love with them. Happy Blog Anniversary!
Silvia D says
happy Blog anniversary! Great Items!
Sarah alexis says
Very cool list – love the tent shade idea – sometimes I need that break from the sun but don’t want to give up our spot!!!!
Victoria Ess says
I want to try the total tease mascara!!
nicky says
Would love that Coleman beach tent/shade for summer days outside!
Judy Cowan says
Some great pick, love the Skechers shoes – they are my favourite shoe brand right now!
Krista Miller (@MillerKrazy) says
One of my favorites is the Skechers, too! I have so many, from slip on’s to runners to winter boots– they are my must-have brand to wear every day!
Ron says
The Kindle would come in really handy for travelling. Books take up a lot of luggage space sometimes.
Elizabeth Matthiesen says
Lego is a huge success in my son’s family – I think he actually infected his kids, lol. I am sure however that his collection is much bigger than theirs. Lego Star Wars is actually the biggest hit here.
Lushka Smith says
I love Skechers too, have a few pairs.
Heidi Pawluk says
So many great items, love the footwear
Al says
I like the Skechers